New Disney World Attraction Announced for 2026
A brand-new animated experience is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026. “The Magic of Disney Animation” will immerse guests in the legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios, complete with an indoor playground, reimagined courtyard, and a heartfelt short film inspired by Once Upon a Studio.
Key Points
Disney is debuting a new animated adventure, "The Magic of Disney Animation," at Hollywood Studios in Disney World in 2026.
The attraction is inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios and an Emmy Award-winning short film, offering interactive exhibits and family-friendly experiences.
Highlights include a whimsical interpretation of the studio's early days, a short film screening, an all-new indoor playground, and a reimagined Animation Courtyard.
Several existing buildings will be redesigned to align with the new theme, with closures starting from Sept. 25, 2025.
In 2026, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will introduce an exciting new animated experience titled The Magic of Disney Animation. This attraction draws inspiration from the legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California, as well as the acclaimed Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio.
Located in the building currently home to Star Wars: Launch Bay, guests will be transported into a whimsical reimagining of the studio’s early days. The experience will showcase Disney characters bringing various animation departments to life, providing an immersive look at the creative process behind Disney’s beloved films and shorts.
This new attraction promises to blend nostalgia with innovation, offering fans a unique peek into the magic of Disney animation history while celebrating the artistry and storytelling that have defined the studio for nearly a century.
Portraits will come to life in the Production Gallery, creating an immersive experience that echoes a memorable moment from "Once Upon a Studio." This interactive display allows guests to engage closely with beloved characters in a dynamic setting.
Meanwhile, the Screening Theater offers a short film designed for all ages, promising enjoyment for the entire family. The storytelling captures the magic and creativity behind the scenes, providing insight into the animation process.
Visitors will also have the unique opportunity to learn how to draw some of their favorite characters through guided tutorials. After honing their skills, guests can meet these fan-favorite characters in person, adding a personal touch to their visit and deepening their connection to the world of animation.
Families with younger children will delight in "Drawn to Wonderland," an all-new indoor playground inspired by Mary Blair's iconic concept art for Alice in Wonderland. This vibrant and imaginative play area features an oversized flower garden equipped with musical instruments, encouraging little ones to explore sound and creativity. The whimsical Mad Tea Party playset offers fun climbing and spinning activities, while the Tulgey Wood exploration area invites kids to embark on adventurous discovery through winding paths and playful surprises.
Adjacent to the indoor playground, the Animation Courtyard is being transformed into "The Walt Disney Studios," an inviting outdoor space designed with families
Beginning September 25, 2025, Animation Courtyard, "Star Wars: Launch Bay," and "Disney Jr. Play and Dance!" will close to make way for an exciting transformation. The exteriors of several existing buildings will be reimagined with design elements inspired by iconic architecture found in Burbank, creating a fresh and immersive atmosphere for guests.
While these areas are undergoing changes, visitors can still enjoy "The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure" and "Walt Disney Presents," ensuring that there are plenty of memorable experiences to enjoy during the transformation period. This reimagining reflects a commitment to enhancing storytelling and guest immersion in the heart of the park.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
Orlando Travel Guides
▸ History of Disney World Offers
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Dates, Tickets & What’s New
Planning to visit Disney World for the holidays? Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party—dates, tickets, returning favorites, and festive surprises.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a seasonal, ticketed event held at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort. It typically runs on select nights during November and December, offering guests a festive, holiday-themed experience featuring exclusive entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and themed attractions.
The event includes highlights such as a special holiday parade, enchanting fireworks show, live stage performances, and opportunities to meet Disney characters dressed in their holiday attire. Complimentary snacks like cookies and hot cocoa are also provided throughout the park. Additionally, many popular attractions remain open with shorter wait times, contributing to a more enjoyable visit.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party provides a unique way to celebrate the holiday season at Disney, combining festive decorations and entertainment with the charm of Magic Kingdom. Tickets are sold separately from regular park admission, and attendance is limited, making it a popular and memorable experience for holiday visitors.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates
The 2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates will run on select nights from Friday, November 7 to Sunday, December 21. They are:
Nov. 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 28, 30
Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21
Reminder: Guests can begin their holiday cheer early! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party guests can enter the park as early as 4:00 p.m. Even though the party officially starts at 7:00 p.m., guests have the option to arrive three hours earlier to kickstart their time in Magic Kingdom.
Mark your calendar: tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will go on sale July 16, 2025 for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green. Tickets for all other guests will be available beginning July 22, 2025.
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can take advantage of special pricing. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Disney Reservation Center.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade
Experience the magic of the holidays with Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade, a festive celebration that captures the true spirit of Christmas. This enchanting parade features lively performances from dancing gingerbread men, elegant ballroom dancers, and iconic marching toy soldiers, all set to cheerful holiday music and delightful seasonal scents that instantly bring the holiday spirit to life.
Join beloved Disney characters in their holiday finery as they parade through the park, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus spreading Christmas cheer and New Year wishes to all.
With the parade route extending from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A., guests can enjoy multiple prime viewing spots throughout the park for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
This is a magical nighttime show hosted by Minnie Mouse that brings the holiday spirit to life at Magic Kingdom. This dazzling spectacle features classic holiday songs like “Deck the Halls” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” perfectly synchronized with impressive pyrotechnics, castle projections, and lighting effects.
Cinderella Castle transforms into a giant holiday gift, wrapped in colorful, festive scenes that complement the music and fireworks overhead. Ideal viewing spots include the central hub in front of the castle, where guests can see the intricate projections, as well as Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, all offering fantastic vantage points.
For a premium experience, visitors can reserve a spot at the Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party held at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. This separately ticketed event provides an array of delicious holiday treats and spectacular views of the fireworks show. Reservation details will be announced soon, so keep an eye out to secure your place for this unforgettable holiday celebration.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration
During this energetic performance on the Cinderella Castle stage, Disney Characters bring the holiday spirit to life, reminding guests why it’s the happiest season of all. The show features a lively medley of joyful tunes that have audiences tapping their feet and singing along. Beloved characters like Clarabelle Cow, Daisy Duck, and Woody join the live performers, adding charm and excitement to the festive atmosphere. This celebration perfectly captures the magic of the season, making it a must-see experience for visitors of all ages at Walt Disney World.
Frozen Holiday Surprise & Dance Parties in the Park
Experience the magic of the season as Cinderella Castle transforms into a breathtaking frozen wonderland during the Frozen Holiday Surprise. Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the adorable snowgies for a sparkling celebration filled with enchanting moments and holiday cheer.
Keep the festive spirit alive with multiple dance parties throughout the park. Show off your best jingle bell rock moves at Club Tinsel, located at Rocket Tower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland, or join the fun at the Disney Junior Jingle Jam inside Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café, also in Tomorrowland. These lively dance parties feature some of your favorite holiday friends, making every step a celebration this season.
Meet Santa at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
It’s the perfect time to meet Santa at Santa’s Christmas Carnival! Get your holiday wish list ready and head on over to Storybook Circus to visit your favorite friend from the North Pole.
Located near Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Barnstormer, this festive holiday stop is ideal for young families. Along with a special meet-and-greet with Santa, guests can enjoy holiday-themed crafts and interact with other characters brimming with Christmas cheer. Don’t miss this magical opportunity to create lasting memories during your Orlando vacation.
Rides Available at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Adventureland
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dive into a classic dark water ride featuring swashbuckling pirates, immersive scenes, and catchy tunes.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin: Soar above Adventureland on a magic carpet with fun, gentle spins and fantastic views.
Frontierland
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Experience the magic of New Orleans and the bayou with this enchanting adventure inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
Liberty Square
Haunted Mansion: Explore this eerie but family-friendly haunted house filled with "999 happy haunts" and spooky surprises.
Fantasyland
Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: Sing along to classic songs on this dark ride retelling Ariel’s underwater tale.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A family-friendly roller coaster through the diamond mine with smooth twists and animatronic dwarfs.
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: A beautifully crafted carousel featuring horses and chariots in a fairy-tale setting.
“it’s a small world”: A gentle boat ride with dolls and music celebrating children and cultures worldwide.
Peter Pan’s Flight: Fly over London and Neverland in this beloved dark ride adventure.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Join Pooh and friends in a whimsical journey through the Hundred Acre Wood.
Mad Tea Party: Spin around in oversized teacups in this whimsical, dizzying attraction.
Storybook Circus
Dumbo the Flying Elephant: Take flight with Dumbo in a classic spinning ride that delights guests of all ages.
The Barnstormer: A mild roller coaster perfect for younger guests featuring Goofy as a stunt pilot.
Tomorrowland
Astro Orbiter: Blast off in a rocket spinner ride high above Tomorrowland.
Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor: Enjoy a comedic, interactive show starring Mike and Sulley.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: Relax on a slow-moving elevated tram providing a scenic tour of Tomorrowland.
TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise: Experience a high-speed motorcycle coaster racing inside the digital world of TRON with thrilling launches and sharp turns.
More to Unwrap: Sweet Treats and Festive Merch
The magical offerings don’t stop there. Once again, a variety of cookies, hot cocoa, and more will be handed out to guests at select locations throughout Magic Kingdom. These sweets are included in the cost of a ticket and are the perfect holiday treat as guests take in the seasonal sights. Locations for these sweet treats will be listed on the holiday party maps found at the front entrance of Magic Kingdom.
Guests can also:
Twirl to classic holiday tunes under a winter “snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A.
Make their treats list and check it twice, because we’ll be sharing a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Foodie Guide from Disney Eats soon.
Find exclusive party merch at the Emporium to make their holiday season even brighter.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
Orlando Travel Guides
▸ History of Disney World Offers
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Port Orleans Riverside Tour: Magnolia Bend, Alligator Bayou & Boat to Disney Springs
Step into the romance of rural Louisiana! Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside is split into two unique sections: the stately Magnolia Bend mansions and the rustic Alligator Bayou cottages. This full tour covers everything you need to know about the resort, from the unique Royal Rooms and 5th sleeper options to dining at Boatwright’s and taking the scenic water taxi to Disney Springs.
There are two sections to Port Orleans Resort Riverside at Walt Disney World. The stately white-column mansions of Magnolia Bend and Alligator Bayou’s quaint backwoods cottages. Both are located in a picturesque setting that evokes the romance of rural Louisiana.
The Sassagoula River connects Port Orleans Riverside to Disney Springs, Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.
Inside the lobby you’ll see a seating area, where passengers might wait for their steamboat (or Uber) to arrive. If you look closely at the richly polished wood floor and you’ll notice a beautiful compass rose inlay, made by hand.
What makes Port Orleans Riverside great
Centrally located on Disney World property
Updated, spacious rooms
Pet-friendly rooms located in a designated pet section of the hotel
Great food court with plenty of seating
Onsite table service restaurant (Boatwright’s)
Lounge with evening entertainment
Cozy atmosphere
Princess-themed rooms available known as “Royal Rooms”
Excellent, paved running trail
Some rooms can sleep 5 guests
-
There are 2,050 rooms at Port Orleans Riverside located in 2 and 3 story buildings with exterior corridors.
The majority of rooms have 2 queen beds that can sleep up to 4 guests but there are several variations, including 5th sleeper rooms and Royal Rooms.
Many rooms have connecting doors. Requests for connecting doors cannot be guaranteed unless two rooms are booked with a parent in each room. Ask me how to arrange this for you when requesting your quote.
Standard View
Standard View 5th Sleeper
Woods View
Woods View 5th Sleeper
Pool View (some have 5th sleepers. If you have a party of 5 and book Pool View, you will get a room with the 5th sleeper).
King Bed rooms
River View
Preferred Room (close to main lobby)
Royal Room - Standard View
Royal Room - River View
Royal Room - Woods View
Port Orleans Riverside is a pet friendly hotel. Rooms designated as pet friendly are only used for guests who have pets. If you’re not traveling with a pet, you will not be assigned a pet friendly room. These rooms are also located in a designated area of the hotel complex.
Located in the Magnolia Bend section of the resort, Royal Rooms have a Disney Princess theme. These rooms are the furthest away from the lobby but Disney is hoping you love the theme so much, that you won’t mind the extra walk.
-
Bell services
Poolside entertainment
ATM
Hotel gift shop
Self-service laundry
-
Boatwright’s Dining Hall: Looking for southern hospitality in a casual but creative setting overlooking the Sassagoula River? Your ship’s come in.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Dinner
Menu Type: A la carte
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Recommended
Cuisine Type: American | Kosher
Dress Code: Casual Attire
Muddy Rivers: Don’t miss a sippy – let the good times roll at this poolside bar at lushly wooded Ol’ Man Island. Party with specialty drinks – frozen or on the rocks, draft beer, wine, superfluity sangria and nonalcoholic beverages.
Air-Conditioned
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Swimwear and Beachwear
River Roost: Enjoy the southern comforts of live entertainment by popular cabaret performer Yehaa Bob while sipping southern-style libations like a Southern Hurricane. A full bar is available at this charming old-fashioned watering hole, as are light snacks while the kitchen is open.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Breakfast | Snacks
Menu Type: A la carte
Reservations: Not Required
Cuisine Type: American
Dress Code: Casual Attire
Riverside Mill Food Court: Settle down for American fare inspired by Southern Louisiana style cookin’ on the bayou. This family-friendly food court sits right next to the big mill wheel that powers a working cotton press. Six stations satisfy any craving: bakery, grill, pizza and pasta, specialties, salads and a craving station. Grab ‘n’ go items available.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Breakfast | Lunch | Snacks
Menu Type: A la carte
Reservations: Not Required
Cuisine Type: American
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Swimwear and Beachwear
-
Complimentary water taxies depart about every 20 minutes for Disney Springs. Boats travel the scenic Sassagoula River, passing by the Disney Treehouses and a few other points of interest along the way.
Disney Springs is a massive shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
Bus transportation is provided to
Magic Kingdom: 8 minutes
Epcot: 8 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 7 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 11 minutes
Disney Springs (limited service - use boat)
-
The feature pool is located just behind the check in building on Ol’ Man Island. A pool bar and playground are also located on the island.
There are several smaller, or quiet pools, located around the resort if you prefer a more relaxing setting. These pools do not have water slides or poolside entertainment and can be found throughout the hotel complex.
There are many scenic pathways around Port Orleans Riverside. You can rent a traditional bicycle or a surrey bike and enjoy a ride along the Sassagoula River.
Rent a fishing pole Ol’ Man Island.
Video arcade just off the lobby
Horse and carriage rides
2 Queen Room
Royal Room 2 Queen Room
Pool on Ol’ Man Island, just behind the main lobby.
Playground on Ol’ Man Island
2 Queen Room + 5th Sleeper
Fulton’s General Store
There are 2 sections to Port Orleans Riverside, Magnolia Bend and Alligator Bayou. While it’s not possible to select which section your room is located in, I am able to note requests on your reservation.
The biggest difference between the two sections is the theme. Magnolia Bend represents the manor houses of the deep south with manicured lawns and plantings. Buildings have 2 and 3 stories with exterior corridors.
Alligator Bayou is made up of 2-story, rustic lodges with shady gardens and pathways.
Port Orleans Riverside - Magnolia Bend
Port Orleans Riverside - Alligator Bayou
Rent a fishing pole Ol’ Man Island!
Rent a traditional bicycle or a surrey bike and enjoy a ride along the Sassagoula River.
Dining Options
Theme Park Transportation
Frequently Asked Questions about Port Orleans Riverside
How long is the bus ride from Port Orleans Riverside to Magic Kingdom?
Magic Kingdom is less than 10 minutes away from Port Orleans Riverside. The bus will make a few stops within the resort complex before making its way to Magic Kingdom and that will add additional time.
Can you walk to Epcot from Port Orleans Riverside?
No, it is not possible to walk to Epcot. Even though Port Orleans Riverside is directly behind Epcot, there is no access way or sidewalk to the park’s entrance.
What did Port Orleans Riverside used to be called?
When the hotel originally opened, it was Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort.
Can you take a boat from Port Orleans to Magic Kingdom?
No, buses operate between Port Orleans Riverside and Magic Kingdom. Boat service is provided only to Disney Springs.
Is Port Orleans Riverside a moderate resort?
Yes, Port Orleans Riverside and its sister hotel, Port Orleans French Quarter are both Disney World moderately priced resorts.
Is Port Orleans Riverside part of DVC (Disney Vacation Club)?
No, it is not a Disney Vacation Club resort but some DVC members may be able to use their points at Port Orleans Riverside.
Search
Disney’s All Star Movies Resort
Dreaming of a stay under the spotlight? Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is the most economical, newly refurbished Disney-owned hotel. Dive into the themed sections like Toy Story and Fantasia, splash around the main pool with Sorcerer Mickey, and grab a meal at the World Premiere Food Court. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the rooms, prices, amenities, and the crucial bus travel times to all four theme parks.
All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is a Value Category hotel near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. The theme celebrates the magic of the movies with different sections representing various Disney films. Standard and preferred rooms are offered at All-Star Music that can sleep up to 4 guests.
Disney’s All Star Movies Resort - Toy Story Section
What makes it great
The most economical Disney-owned hotel.
Newly refurbished rooms
Some things to consider
It’s in a remote location, far from the theme parks. See Transportation.
Some third-party hotels operating on Disney property have larger rooms, free breakfast, and similar nightly rates. See Drury Plaza Hotel.
This resort is often used by youth groups who are participating in competitions at Walt Disney World.
Room Categories
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort rooms are about 260 square feet. Standard and Preferred rooms have identical floor plans however they vary by location and view.
Rooms
Standard Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area. 1 King Bed or 1 Queen Bed & 1 Queen-Size Table Bed.
Preferred Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area. 1 King Bed or 1 Queen Bed & 1 Queen-Size Table Bed.
Standard and Preferred rooms sleep up to 4 guests + 1 child up to age 3 in a crib.
The room in this video will be nearly identical to an All-Star Sports room.
Room Rates for Disney’s All-Star Movies
The average nightly rate for All-Star Movies is $220 for a Standard Room. Preferred Rooms cost slightly more.
Standard Room Amenities
Online check-in
Separate shower/bathtub
TV and cable
Free Wifi
USB Ports
Coffee maker and Disney-branded coffee
Mini-Fridge
Disney-branded soap and shampoo
Ironing amenities
Hotel Services
Luggage delivery service (hourly)
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme parking parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Daily housekeeping upon request
Elevator
ATM on site
Pool and recreation
Movie Under the Stars
Jogging Trail
Playground
Reel Fun Arcade
Fantasia Pool – Inspired by the Disney classic Fantasia, this sprawling pool is home to a Sorcerer Mickey fountain. This is the main pool at the hotel. It has a nearby pool bar, food court and there’s a lifeguard on duty.
Duck Pond Pool – Go for a “splash-shot” at this pool based on The Mighty Ducks film series.
Dining Options
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
World Premiere Food Court – 5 quick-service stations, showcasing all-American fare.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
Silver Screen Spirits Pool Bar – Specialty cocktails are the true stars of this brightly colored bar located by the Fantasia Pool.
Theme Park Transportation
Complimentary Disney Bus Service to Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs.
Magic Kingdom - 47 minutes
Epcot - 43 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 42 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 38 minutes
Approximate travel time includes waiting for the bus to arrive at the resort and travel time.
Similar Hotels
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
The crumbling Orlando Sun Resort is finally meeting the wrecking ball to make way for Ovation, a billion-dollar entertainment district. But as a local, I’m looking past the glitz—will this be a community hub for us, or just another overpriced gauntlet of Disney souvenir shops?